A DARWEN woman is currently pounding out the miles as she enters the final stage of her training for this year's London Marathon.

Maureen Hartley is taking part in this year's event to raise money for the Blackburn with Darwen branch of Age Concern.

She is appealing for sponsors.

Maureen, 46, a branch manager at Abbeydale Homecare in Railway Road, said she picked Age Concern for her charity after a chat with her boss.

"Last year I ran it for Victim Support in Hyndburn," said Maureen.

"Because I work for a company which helps old people in the community, Age Concern seemed a natural choice."

So far her training has been going well.

"I have been doing about 50 miles a week and on some days 20 miles individually.

"I am starting to wind it down and the week before I will not do any and build up my energy," she said.

With exactly a month to go before the 26-mile run, Maureen's thoughts are turning to how events will turn out on the day.

"I am looking forward to the first 18 miles of it but the last eight are hell," she added.

If you would like to sponsor Maureen before the race, on April 22, contact Elaine Jennings on 01254 266620.